Pre-Industrial Era
Pinner
An extinct profession from Pre-Industrial Era that became obsolete due to technological advancement and societal change.
Media Gallery
Related Exhibits
Stagecoach Driver
The stagecoach driver, a vital figure in the 19th century, was responsible for transporting passengers and goods across vast distances in horse-drawn coaches. These drivers navigated rugged terrains, often through treacherous weather conditions, ensuring the safety and comfort of their passengers. The stagecoach itself was a marvel of engineering, designed to carry multiple passengers and their luggage, while the driver skillfully managed a team of horses, often up to six, to pull the heavy vehicle. The role required not only a deep understanding of the horses and the coach but also an intimate knowledge of the routes, including potential hazards such as rough roads, rivers, and bandit-infested areas. Stagecoach drivers were often seen as the lifeline of communication and commerce in the expanding American West, connecting remote settlements with urban centers and facilitating the movement of mail and goods.
Breaker Boy
The role of a Breaker Boy emerged during the Industrial Revolution, particularly in the coal mining regions of the United States, where the demand for coal surged to fuel the burgeoning industries. Breaker Boys were young boys, often between the ages of 8 and 12, who worked in coal breaker facilities. Their primary responsibility was to separate impurities from coal, a crucial step in preparing the coal for market. This labor-intensive job involved sitting on a high platform above a conveyor belt, where they would pick out rocks, slate, and other debris from the coal as it passed by. The work was not only monotonous but also hazardous, as the boys were exposed to coal dust and the risk of injury from the machinery. Breaker Boys typically worked long hours, often from dawn until dusk, in poorly ventilated and unsafe conditions, earning a meager wage that reflected the exploitative labor practices of the time. The job was emblematic of the harsh realities faced by child laborers during the Industrial Revolution, highlighting the intersection of economic necessity and social injustice.
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